MUMBAI (Diya TV) — A tragic incident unfolded on Sunday afternoon in the pilgrimage town of Dehu, Pune district, when an old iron pedestrian bridge over the Indrayani River collapsed, plunging several tourists and devotees into the swift-flowing waters below. At least two people have been confirmed dead, while authorities fear that up to 25 individuals may be missing.

The incident occurred between 3:30 and 4:00 PM IST near the Kundamala area in Maval tehsil. The bridge, reportedly overcrowded at the time, suddenly gave way, sending a crowd of visitors—including families and children—into the river. The region had witnessed heavy rains in previous days, although it was not raining at the time of the collapse.

Emergency services, including the Pimpri Chinchwad Police, local fire brigade, and National Disaster Response Force (NDRF), quickly mobilized rescue operations. As of Sunday evening, 5 to 7 people had been rescued and were receiving treatment at local hospitals.

“An old iron bridge near the lake and waterfall collapsed… two people have lost their lives, and 6–7 others have been injured,” said DCP Vishal Gaikwad of Pimpri Chinchwad Police. NCP MLA Sunil Shelke, present at the site, confirmed the deployment of two NDRF teams and reported that 4 to 5 persons were successfully rescued.

A member of the rescue team told PTI, “The rescue operation is underway. Some people have been saved. We don’t know for sure, but possibly 20-25 people are likely trapped under the debris.”

Preliminary reports suggest the bridge was in poor condition and not maintained adequately despite being a popular site. Eyewitnesses and locals reported motorcycles on the pedestrian bridge, which may have contributed to the collapse due to excessive load.

“The bridge was never meant to support such weight,” said a local resident. “There were motorcycles and heavy footfall—a recipe for disaster.”

Former Vice President of the Dehu Road Cantonment Board, Raghuvir Shelar, noted that nearly 125 people were on or near the bridge when it collapsed.

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis addressed the public, stating: “I have spoken to the Divisional Commissioner, Tehsildar, and Police Commissioner. Some people are injured and hospitalized, while others are trapped or swept away. The NDRF team is reaching there. We have not yet received confirmation about casualties, so it would not be appropriate to comment further.”

NCP MP Supriya Sule expressed concern on social media, stating, “This is a very unfortunate incident, and I pray to God that all these citizens are safe. I have spoken to the District Collector of Pune, and all necessary help is being sent. I urge citizens to be cautious and strictly follow safety guidelines during monsoon tourism.”

The rescue operation continues as local authorities and national agencies work to find those still missing. Ambulances remain stationed nearby, and divers continue to search the river.

Officials have pledged a full investigation into the collapse, including the structural integrity of similar pedestrian bridges across the region. As the monsoon season begins, concerns around infrastructure safety are once again at the forefront of public debate.

More updates are expected as the situation develops.